Beliefs and teachings: Qur’an: revelation and authority

The idea

The Qur'an is the central religious text of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal, unaltered word of God (Allah). It was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the Angel Jibril over a period of 23 years, beginning on the Night of Power (Laylat al-Qadr). Because it is considered the direct word of God, the Qur'an holds supreme authority in Islamic law, theology, and daily life. It provides absolute guidance on how to live, worship, and treat others. Muslims demonstrate their respect for its authority by treating the physical book with immense reverence, such as washing before handling it (wudu) and placing it on the highest shelf. It is the ultimate source of Shari'ah law, superseding all other texts.

What earns the marks

• The Qur'an was revealed to Muhammad by Allah through the Angel Jibril.
• The revelation occurred over approximately 23 years, starting on the Night of Power.
• Muslims show respect for its authority through ritual purity (wudu) before reading and memorising it (Hafiz).

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Error: Stating Muhammad wrote the Qur'an. Correction: Muhammad was illiterate; he recited the words revealed to him by God, which were later compiled by his followers.

• Confusing the Qur'an with the Hadith.

  Put it right: The Qur'an is the direct word of God, whereas the Hadith are the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad.

• Believing the Qur'an was revealed all at once.

  Put it right: The revelation was a gradual process taking place over 23 years.

Exam tips

• Use the Arabic term 'Laylat al-Qadr' when discussing the initial revelation to demonstrate specific subject knowledge.
• When evaluating the authority of the Qur'an, contrast it with other sources of authority like the Hadith or Sunnah to show depth of understanding.
• Always link the belief in the Qur'an's divine origin directly to why it holds supreme authority in a Muslim's daily life.